KR101469968B1 - Luminaire comprising adjustable light modules - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides a general lighting fixture comprising one or more adjustable optical modules. In particular, the luminaire generally includes a heat sink, each of which includes one or more light emitting elements and selectively thermally coupled thereto, and an output optical element that manages light output from the at least one light emitting element. Generally, the optical module is adjustably coupled to the luminaire through a coupling structure that provides one or more adjustment mechanisms for adjusting the orientation of the optical module to adjust the output direction of the luminaire while substantially maintaining the spatial profile of the luminaire. do.

Optical module, lighting fixture, adjustment mechanism

Description

[0001] LUMINAIRE COMPRISING ADJUSTABLE LIGHT MODULES [0002]

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to the field of lighting and, in particular, to a luminaire with an adjustable optical module.

The development and development of luminous flux of light emitting devices such as semiconductors and organic light emitting diodes (LEDs) has made these devices suitable for use in general lighting applications, including architectural, entertainment and road lighting. Light emitting diodes are becoming increasingly competitive with light sources such as incandescent, fluorescent, and high-intensity discharge lamps.

A challenge common to all light sources, especially all the light sources used in general and specific lighting applications where the visual appearance and / or aesthetics of a given light source is important, or at least of interest, is to provide adequate illumination for the application It is in the conceptual, constructive and / or architectural design of the light source. That is, a specific or general purpose light source used in a given environment, such as a lighting fixture, should provide adequate illumination while maintaining visual satisfaction in the context of a given environment.

One type of light source that provides a particular challenge in this situation is a light source configured to provide an adjustable output for directionality and shape. For example, various light sources currently available provide this adjustment to the direction and / or shape of the output beam, but do not provide a suitable solution to provide a visual and aesthetically pleasing design that reduces visual disruption.

For example, U.S. Patent No. 4,729,077 and U.S. Patent No. 6,942,363 describe a lighting device having an adjustable lamp direction and output beam width. The reflector and the discharge or arc lamp are mounted on an adjustable mount for tilting and panning the illuminator and the position of the lamp is further adjustable relative to the reflector along its optical axis to adjust the output beam width.

U.S. Patent No. 6,945,671 describes a similar light source mounted on a pivot support, wherein the fluorescent lamp is positioned within the concave reflector at any one of the three positions along its optical axis to select the desired output beam width.

Also, in U.S. Patent No. 5,386,354, the lamp fixture is described to include a lamp fixedly mounted within an adjustable dome-shaped reflector configured to pivot relative to the base of the fixture to direct light in a selected direction.

In U. S. Patent No. 6,193, 395, the lighting device includes two lamp assemblies each having a respective lamp and an output lens, through which each internal track permits independent orientation of each lamp assembly relative to the base unit And is adjustably mounted to the base unit. The rotation of the bezel, which stably holds the output lens of a given optical assembly, moves the output lens relative to the lamp to adjust the output beam width.

Likewise, in U.S. Patent No. 6,877,876, a variable beam flash includes a ramp rotatable about an axis with respect to a fixed output lens, enabling the adjustment of the output beam width.

U.S. Patent Nos. 5,907,648 and 6,200,011 describe a luminaire comprising a light source such as a lamp or optical fiber assembly movable relative to a fixed output lens to selectively control the output direction and beam width.

Similarly, U.S. Patent Application No. 2005/0018434 describes a position illuminator comprising one or more LDEs movable through X, Y and / or Z relative to the output lens to adjust output directionality and beam width .

In addition, other currently available light sources that provide an adjustable output have been developed for the automotive industry. An example of an adjustable automotive light source is provided in U.S. Patent Application 2006/0023461 wherein the angle and direction of the light beam produced by the vehicle's spotlight is adjusted for driving conditions and situations.

However, the above examples mainly focus on the controllability of the output of the light source, primarily through the movement of the light elements of the light source relative to the output optics of the light source, and can be used for general structural, structural and / Little or no attention is paid to the overall visual or aesthetic impact of the effect.

In addition, a common illuminator, such as a track illuminator, etc., must change its shape or spatial position to change the direction of the projected light beam. For example, targeting a series of track heads in track lighting can cause serious visual confusion that architects and designers call "dead bats."

As a result, there is a need for an improved light source, such as a lighting fixture or the like, that solves some of the drawbacks of known light sources.

This background information is provided to disclose information that the applicant believes has relevance to the present invention. Which of the preceding information does not necessarily admit and should not be construed to constitute prior art to the present invention.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a lighting fixture comprising an adjustable optical module. According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lighting device for providing general lighting, comprising: a housing defining an illumination device spatial profile and including an output; And at least one optical module pivotally coupled within the housing, wherein each of the at least one optical module includes a light emitting element, and a respective heat sink and output optical element therethrough; The at least one optical module is configured to pivot within the housing to adjust the direction of light emitted therefrom through the output while substantially maintaining a spatial profile of the illuminator.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided an optical module for use in a general lighting fixture, comprising: a heat sink; A light emitting element; And an output optical element attachment member including an output optical element and an attachment element, wherein the output optical element attachment member is disposed between the light emitting element and the heat sink while locating the optical element in optical alignment with the output portion of the light emitting element, Is coupled to the heat sink and the light emitting element through the attachment element to maintain thermal coupling between the heat sink and the light emitting element.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a lighting device for providing general illumination, comprising: a coupling structure including a base portion and a substantially longitudinal optical module coupling portion, wherein the optical module coupling portion is substantially parallel to the optical module coupling portion Pivotally coupled to the base to pivot relative to a longitudinal axis of the base; And a linear array of optical modules each pivotally coupled along the optical module coupling to pivot about a respective transverse axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the pivot movement of each of the optical modules comprising: There is provided a luminaire that provides adjustment of the orientation of the luminaire while substantially maintaining its spatial profile.

1A-1B are heat sink designs for optical modules in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, wherein each heat sink design is shown in top, side, and plan views.

2 is a perspective view of a luminaire including an adjustable optical module in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

3 is a perspective view of the lighting apparatus of Fig. 2, in which the transparent portion of the housing is removed.

Fig. 4 is a perspective view of one of the light modules of the luminaire of Fig. 2;

Figure 5 is a front view of the optical module of Figure 4;

Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the output optical element attachment member of the optical module of Fig. 4;

7A-7F are perspective views of a luminaire comprising adjustable optical modules in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 8 is a side view of a luminaire comprising an adjustable optical module mounted in a housing in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9 is a front view of the luminaire of Fig. 8, wherein the housing includes an output portion adjustable with the optical module to adjust its orientation and a substantially opaque portion.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of a linear array of lighting fixtures, such as the lighting fixture of Figure 9;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of substantially linear lighting fixtures, each comprising a housing having an adjustable output portion and a substantially opaque portion to adjust its orientation;

Justice

The term "light emitting element" refers to an apparatus that emits light in one region or combination of regions of the electronic spectrum, e.g., in the visible region, the infrared region and / or the ultraviolet region, It is used to define. Thus, the light emitting element may have monochromatic, pseudo-monochromatic, multicolor, or broadband spectral radiation properties. Examples of light emitting devices include semiconductor, organic, or polymer / polymer light emitting diodes, optically pumped coated light emitting diodes, optical pumping type nanocrystal light emitting diodes, or other similar devices that may be readily understood by those skilled in the art . The term light emitting element may also be used to define a particular device that emits light, e.g., an LED die, and may likewise be used to define a combination of specific devices that emit light with a housing or package in which the particular device or devices are located .

The term "spatial profile" is commonly used to define the general overall three-dimensional configuration and / or appearance of a given luminaire in the context of an entity, i. For example, the spatial profile of a luminaire may be defined by the general overall volume shape and / or appearance of the luminaire in a given setting, i.e. the overall location, alignment, form, placement, architectural symmetry of the luminaire and / May be defined by other such features that are readily understood by those skilled in the art.

The term "luminaire" refers to a light source, a lighting unit, and / or a lighting unit, which includes one or more light emitting elements and a combination of components designed to support, position and / Or is commonly used to define lighting fixtures. Includes various optical elements for collecting, mixing, collimating, diffusing, focusing and / or directing light output from one or more light emitting elements in conjunction with various electrical and / or mechanical adjustment mechanisms, Other such non-limiting components may be included in a given luminaire as is readily known to those skilled in the art. Further, the term "luminaire" is intended to encompass a light source, a lighting unit and / or a light source that is portable and / or mountable to a wall, ceiling, furniture (e.g., shelf, shelf, display case, cabinet, etc.) and / It is used to define lighting fixtures.

The terms "pivot," " pivoting, "and" pivotally "are generally used in connection with rotational movement of one entity relative to a pivot point or axis. Generally, fibrating movements are caused by rotational and / or angular movements imparted to one entity relative to another entity, resulting in a certain angle of rotation of a given angle of rotation over 360 degrees (e.g., less than one degree) Indicates movement that brings about a change in each direction of the object. In addition, the movement of the fitter may generally be represented by a combination of one or more of tilting, panning, swiveling, and the like, and may optionally be a roll, pitch and / ≪ / RTI > may be associated with each redirection that can be expressed as a change in the redirected pixel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the fibrating movement may further include a transition so that such fibrating movements of a given entity combine to provide an overall arcuate and / or curvilinear motion of the entity while still allowing for angular orientation of the entity And the like.

As used previously, the term "about " refers to a +/- 10% variation in nominal value. Of course, these variations are always included in the values given here, whether or not they are specifically mentioned.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

The present invention provides a lighting fixture comprising an adjustable optical module. In particular, the luminaires primarily configured for general illumination comprise one or more optical modules each comprising one or more luminous elements. In one embodiment, at least some of the optical modules may include an output optical element that manages each of the heat sinks in thermal contact and / or light output from the one or more light emitting elements. In general, the one or more optical modules are adjustably coupled to the luminaire through a coupling structure and / or housing that provides one or more adjustment mechanisms for orienting the optical modules to adjust the output direction of the luminaire. In one embodiment where the optical module is coupled into the housing, the housing may generally include a light output portion (e.g., transparent or translucent window, cutout, etc.) through which light emitted by one or more light emitting elements may be directed have.

In one embodiment, the luminaire provides the ability to be neatly aligned with architectural and / or aesthetic settings that are used largely without departure or without causing significant visual disruption. As a result, the luminaire can be designed to provide adjustable illumination without significantly altering the general spatial profile (e.g., overall structure, configuration, and / or architectural symmetry, etc.) of the luminaire. The luminaire generally combines the function of the adjustable light source with a substantially sustainable spatial profile that can reduce the overall visual and / or aesthetic impact of the adjustability of the luminaire on its environment and / or setting.

Optical module

The lighting fixture includes one or more optical modules, each of which includes one or more light emitting elements. Each of the one or more light emitting elements is associated with a suitable drive circuit that enables controllable operation of the one or more light emitting elements. One or more light emitting elements may be thermally coupled to a thermal management system, e.g., a heat sink, or other such thermal management system that provides a means for the emission of heat generated by one or more light emitting elements during its operation. The optical module may further include one or more optical elements to provide for manipulation of light generated by one or more light emitting elements of the optical module. The optical element may be configured to provide other forms of optical manipulation such that the desired optical power is produced by one or more optical elements of the reflective, refractive, diffractive, parallel and / or optical modules.

In one embodiment, each optical module includes one light emitting device, such as a high-brightness or high-power light emitting device, and respective heat sinks and output optical devices therefor. For example, the luminous means of a given optical module can be interlocked with a substrate having a suitable driving circuit (e.g. printed circuit board-PCB, etc.) thermally coupled to a heat sink that emits heat generated by the luminous means being driven. An output optical element such as a lens or the like may be coupled to the optical module in optical alignment with the light emitting element.

In one embodiment, each optical module includes 1W to 5W light emitting devices such as light emitting diodes and the like. Each optical module may also include a parallel lens that makes the output of the light emitting element parallel.

In another embodiment, the optical module may include two or more light emitting elements, i.e., light emitting elements of different colors, to provide a multicolored or combined color output. For example, red, green, and blue light emitting devices can be combined in a single optical module to provide a substantially white light source. Alternatively, red, amber, green, and blue light emitting devices can be combined. A plurality of light emitting elements can be combined in a given optical module to provide higher output light intensity or brightness. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that other such combinations can be considered without departing from the general scope and nature of the invention.

In one embodiment, the output optical element of the optical module is provided through an output optical element attachment member permanently or removably attached to the optical module. The output optical element attachment member may include an attachable casing having an output optical element at one end and an attachment element for quick assembly to the optical module at the other end. For example, the lens can be mounted or molded at the top of the output optical element attachment member, and a group of attachment clips are fabricated at the bottom for ready assembly of the optical module.

In one embodiment, the output optical element attachment member of the optical module is configured to be mounted on top of the light emitting element such that the attachment clip or other such attachment elements extend past the substrate upon which the one or more light emitting elements are mounted, And is coupled to the upper lip portion to maintain thermal coupling between the at least one light emitting element and the heat sink. For example, the coupling of the output optical element attachment member can be configured to apply an adhesion pressure between the substrate and the heat sink to maintain the thermal coupling. Other examples of the attachment mechanism may include, but are not limited to, one or more of magnetic elements, snap-fit elements, threaded elements, pressure-fit elements, It is not. For example, a lens barrel for reducing the emission of light not directed through the output optical element may be further provided in the output optical element attachment member to reduce undesired radiation.

Those skilled in the art will readily understand that other attachment means, such as mechanical and / or magnetic attachment means, can be considered in this example to provide similar results without departing from the general scope and nature of the present invention.

According to another embodiment, the heat sink of the optical module is fabricated according to a particular pattern to provide a high surface area for effective heat dissipation while providing a desired profile to the optical module. Rather than using a standard heat sink configuration, such as a parallel plate configuration or a 2D square peg array configuration, a heat sink can be designed according to functional requirements and desired profile. For example, Figures 1A and 1B illustrate six heat sink configurations, each providing a desired heat dissipation surface that may have a range of, for example, about 10 to 30 square inches. 1A and 1B, each heat sink configuration is shown in a top perspective view, a side profile perspective view, and a top view. In each case, the pattern shown can provide the desired level of heat dissipation while providing desired aesthetic support to the optical module.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other such heat sink designs with desired physical configurations may be considered without departing from the general scope and nature of the present invention, while providing the desired heat dissipation surface area.

The coupling structure and / or housing

The at least one optical module of the luminaire is adjustably coupled to the coupling structure and / or to the housing to provide one or more adjustment mechanisms for directing the optical module to adjust the output direction of the luminaire. In general, the coupling structure allows for aesthetic coupling of one or more optical modules in the luminaire and provides controllability without significantly changing the spatial profile of the luminaire.

In one embodiment, the coupling structure includes a base portion mountable to the support structure and an optical module coupling portion that can be coupled to one or more optical modules of the lighting device. While the base is fixedly mountable, the optical module coupling can be moved relative to the base to adjust the orientation of the optical module coupled thereto. For example, the optical module coupling portion can pivot (e.g., panning, tilting, swiveling, rotating, etc.) with respect to the base portion. The coupling portion may be further adjusted in a linear manner (e.g., up and down, left and right, etc.) or in a combined motion (e.g., arcuate motion, curved path, etc.).

In one embodiment, the coupling structure provides for coupling of one or more linear arrays of optical modules. In this regard, the coupling structure may include, for example, a base and a substantially longitudinal optical module coupling. In another embodiment, the coupling structure comprises a plurality of substantially longitudinal optical module couplings for each linear array of optical modules.

In one embodiment, each optical module is pivotally coupled to a bar to pivot about a respective axis, and the bar itself pivots about its axis or a longitudinal axis substantially parallel thereto. In one embodiment, each axis to which the optical module pivots is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In another embodiment, each axis is substantially defined by a respective axis of symmetry (e.g., gravity center, geographical center, etc.) of the optical module. Alternatively or additionally, the longitudinal axis is defined by the symmetry axis of the luminaire.

In one embodiment, the longitudinal axis to which the bar and the one or more optical modules coupled thereto pivot is substantially defined by, or positioned close to, the symmetry axis of the assembly. In one embodiment, the bars and the plurality of optical modules are formed of a linear array of optical modules configured to pivot about an axis in the longitudinal direction defined by a linear array, each configured to pivot about an axis substantially perpendicular thereto do.

In one embodiment, the luminaire comprises one or more optical modules, each of which includes panning and tilting in a substantially fixed housing that substantially defines and maintains the overall spatial profile of the luminaire (e.g., at least two fibrating Including at least one light emitting element capable of emitting light (e.g., having a degree of freedom), thereby reducing visual clutter.

In one embodiment, the housing includes an output portion from which light emitted from at least a portion of the at least one optical module can be directed. In one embodiment, the output includes a transparent or translucent housing. In another embodiment, the housing includes a fixed transparent or semi-transparent portion (e.g., window) through which light output from the at least one light emitting element can be transmitted. In yet another embodiment, the housing includes a movable transparent or semi-transparent portion that pivots with one or more optical modules and / or one or more optical module mounts, such that the orientation is accommodated by spatial adjustment and / or alignment of the output portion. For example, the housing may comprise a substantially transparent output enclosed by a substantially opaque portion, wherein the transparent portion may be adjustably coupled to the base of the housing and coupled to the optical module and / The adjustment of the orientation of the module is adapted to be accommodated by a similar adjustment of the output.

As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various housing configurations and configurations can be considered without departing from the general scope and nature of the present invention. For example, a linear or longitudinal housing may be selected for a lighting fixture comprising one or more linear arrays of optical modules. A square or rectangular housing, or a round or circular housing may be considered depending on the number of optical modules in use and their general configuration, which may vary depending on the application for which the luminaire is designed. For example, in one embodiment, the housing includes a smooth dome or tube housing.

The luminaire may also include a coupling structure configured to be mounted in a vertical, horizontal, and / or other alignment suitable for the application for which the luminaire is designed. For example, a substantially longitudinal luminaire may be mounted horizontally, for example, suspended from a ceiling or shelf, or mounted vertically, for example, hanging vertically on a wall or ceiling. Other such mounting configurations should be apparent to those skilled in the art and are therefore not to be regarded as a departure from the general scope and nature of the invention.

Adjustment mechanism

Typically, the one or more optical modules are adjustably coupled to the mating structure of the luminaire and / or within the luminaire housing.

In one embodiment, the one or more optical modules are individually adjustable via respective adjustment mechanisms. Such discrete mechanisms may include, for example, various mechanical joints such as pivot pins, coupling shafts, universal joints, ball joints, or other adjustable coupling means as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Individual adjustment of one or more optical modules can be performed manually or with a motorized remote control.

In another embodiment, the luminaire comprises two or more optical modules and each optical module or subgroup thereof is adjustable via a common adjustment mechanism.

In one embodiment, the pivotal movement (e.g., fan, swivel, tilt, etc.) of the optical module is provided through one or more thumb wheels. In another embodiment, the pivot movement is provided through one or more levers. In another embodiment, the pivot movement is provided through one or more electric motors selectively operated via remote control. In another embodiment, the pivot movement is provided through a combination of at least some of the mechanisms. Those skilled in the art will understand that these and other such mechanisms may be considered independently or in combination without departing from the general scope and nature of the invention.

In one embodiment, the one or more optical modules are organized into one or more linear arrays, and each array is adjustable as a group to provide a common direction to each of the optical modules. For example, each optical module of a given linear array can be mechanically interconnected to move in unison. Such interconnection may be provided by an aiming bar or structure that distributes substantially the same movement to each interconnected module as it is moved.

In one embodiment, each optical module of the linear array is pivotally coupled to a coupling bar or structure through a first set of pivot pins or axes. The aiming arm or structure is interconnected through a second set of pivot pins or shafts spaced apart from the first set and coupled to the optical module such that a substantially linear movement of the aiming arm or structure results in the movement of the optical module Thereby inducing the pivot movement. In one embodiment, the coupling bar is further pivotally coupled to the base of the coupling structure such that the linear array selectively pivots about its longitudinal axis through the pivotal movement of the same aiming arm.

Alternatively, each optical module of a given array may be mechanically linked to the same drive mechanism that distributes substantially the same motion to each optical module of the array. For example, the motor drive mechanism may optionally be coupled to the optical module to adjust its orientation via remote control.

In this and other such embodiments, the one or more optical modules may be manually adjusted (i.e., panning, tilting, rotating, etc.), wherein the user may directly or indirectly illuminate one or more lights Adjust the module. Alternatively, the adjustment of one or more optical modules may be automated, for example, using a portable remote control or the like, thereby allowing the user to remotely adjust the orientation of the lighting fixture. This alternative method may be useful, for example, in an environment that is mounted out of reach, such as a high ceiling, so that the orientation of the luminaire can be adjusted to face the display in a retail store or museum, for example without having to climb onto the luminaire and manually adjust.

As will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, other adjustment mechanisms may be considered to provide individual and / or group adjustment of one or more optical modules of a given luminaire without departing from the general scope and nature of the present invention.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to specific examples. The following examples are intended to illustrate embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention in any way.

Yes

Example 1:

Referring to Figures 2-6, a luminaire generally designated by the numeral 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention will be described next. The luminaire 100 generally includes a housing 102 and a linear array of optical modules 104 adjustably coupled therein.

The housing 102 generally includes a base 106 selectively secured or movably mountable to a support structure such as a wall, ceiling, furniture (e.g., cabinet, shelf, display case, etc.) (108). ≪ / RTI > The lighting device 100 is generally configured to be mounted horizontally, although it may be contemplated to couple the lighting device 100 vertically or in a different direction depending on the application being used.

In this embodiment, the base portion 106 defines a longitudinal structure having an attachment tab 110 extending outwardly from its opposite longitudinal end. The optical module coupling portion 108 defined by the substantially longitudinal coupling bar includes a group of attachment tabs 112 at opposite ends thereof configured to pivotally attach to the attachment tabs 112 of the base portion 106, (Shown by arrow A) to allow the modular engagement portion 108 to pivot relative to the longitudinal axis 114 defined by the pivotal engagement of the attachment tabs 110 and 112. The housing 102 is secured to the optical module 104 (FIG. 2) as the optical module 104 is pivoted together with the coupling portion 108, as shown in Figure 2, detachable (Figure 3), or pivotally coupled to the optical module coupling 108 (Not shown) that can pivot together to receive the output direction of the light source (e.g.

The optical module 104 includes one or more light emitting devices (not shown) coupled to a substrate 118 (e.g., a printed circuit board or the like), a heat sink 120 (not shown) thermally coupled thereto for managing the heat generated thereby And an output optical element such as a lens 122 arranged to block and control (e.g., focus, parallel, diffuse, etc.) the optical output of the light emitting element. In this particular embodiment, the output lens 122 of each optical module 104 is attached within the output optical element attachment member 124 (see FIG. 6). This attachment member 124 couples to the exterior attachment lip 128 of the heat sink 120 and optically aligns with the output of the light emitting device to place the output lens 122 therein, And includes a group of attachment clips 126 configured to secure. The lens barrel 130 (see FIG. 5) may be provided to reduce stray radiation that is not directed through the lens 122, and holes 131 may be provided to the substrate 118 (e.g., a PCB) (E. G., Via wire 132). ≪ / RTI >

In general, each optical module 104 is coupled to the optical module coupling 108 via a respective axis pin 134 disposed along the length of the coupling 108 and oriented substantially perpendicular thereto, 104) define the respective transverse axes that can be pivoted (indicated by arrow B). In this particular embodiment, the shaft 134 is coupled between the coupling portion 108 and each heat sink 120 of the optical module 104. Alternatively, the shaft 134 may be coupled to the optical module 104 either through a dedicated structure integrally or removably secured to the optical module 104, or via an extension of the heat sink 120, an output optical element attachment member 124, The optical module 104 can be coupled to the coupling portion 108 through the coupling portion 108 and the like. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other configurations may be contemplated without departing from the general scope and nature of the invention.

The luminaire 100 also generally includes an integrated and / or detachable power source, e.g., located within the base 106, or an external power source, such as a structure equipped with the luminaire 100, a power line And means for connecting the lighting fixture 100 to the lighting fixture. Power is provided to the optical module 104 via wire 132, for example, in series with the light emitting element. Parallel circuits, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, may be considered here, for example, to provide independent or group control of optical modules and / or one or more light emitting devices thereof.

As indicated by arrows A and B, the optical module 104 is configured to pivotally move the pivoting movement of the optical module 104 relative to the longitudinal axis 114 and / Can be adjusted through pivot motion. Thereby, the output of the lighting device 100 can be tilted and / or panned as needed to provide the desired lighting effect. To achieve this adjustment, an adjustment wheel, lever and / or motor driven remote control may be provided. For example, a thumb wheel may be provided to adjust the pivot angle of the coupling portion 108, and a collimating arm interconnecting each optical module 104 or subgroup thereof may be used to adjust the pivot angle of the module 104 . ≪ / RTI > For the latter example, a collimating arm, such as the arm 136 of FIG. 5, is coupled to the optical module 104 via a group of shaft pins 138 spaced from the shaft pin 134, The movement (indicated by arrow C) induces pivotal movement (indicated by arrow B) of the optical module 104 relative to the support 108 to panned or tilted the output of the optical module 104 (indicated by arrow D).

Further, adjustment of the various pivot angles of the luminous means 104 can be achieved without significantly changing the spatial profile of the luminaires 100. In particular, when the optical module 104 is adjusted relative to the housing 102, the overall longitudinal profile of the luminaire 100 is substantially maintained. That is, the redirection of the optical module in the housing 102 does not significantly affect the overall position, alignment, shape, placement, and architectural symmetry of the light fixture 100, regardless of whether the housing window 116 is used or not. Thereby, the luminaire 100 provides an adjustable beam while maintaining a substantially fixed spatial profile.

In Fig. 11, two lighting devices 100 are shown mounted linearly so as to hang from the ceiling, the direction of which is indicated by the common direction of the optical modules (not shown) and the output 116 of each luminaire do. In this particular example, the output includes a substantially transparent portion surrounded by a substantially opaque portion, and the transparent portion is pivotable about the longitudinal axis of the illuminator to follow the adjustment of the optical module.

Example 2:

Referring to Figures 7A-7F, a luminaire designated by the numeral 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described. The luminaire 200 generally includes a linear array of optical modules 204 that are coupled to the coupling structure 202 and is adjustably coupled thereto.

The coupling structure 202 generally includes a base 206 selectively mountable or movably mountable to a support structure such as a wall, ceiling, furniture (e.g., cabinet, shelf, display case, etc.), and a pivot- And a coupling portion 208. Generally, the lighting device 200 is configured to be mounted vertically, although it may be considered to mount the lighting device 200 in a different direction depending on the application used.

In this embodiment, the optical module coupling portion 208 defined by the substantially longitudinal coupling bar includes an attachment tab 212 at its longitudinal end configured to pivotally couple to the base portion 206, (Indicated by arrow E) to pivot about a longitudinal axis 214 defined by the pivotal connection of the attachment tab 212 to the base portion 206. In this embodiment, the longitudinal axis is substantially defined by the longitudinal geometrical symmetry axis of the illuminator. Detachable or pivotable to the optical module engagement portion 208 to pivot together to receive the output of the optical module 204 when the optical module 204 pivots with the engagement portion 208. [ An optional transparent portion or window (not shown) that can be coupled.

Each of the optical modules 204 generally includes one or more light emitting devices (not shown) coupled to a substrate 218 (such as a printed circuit board), a heat sink 220 that is thermally coupled thereto to manage the heat generated thereby And an output optical element such as a lens 222 arranged to block and control (e.g., focus, parallel, spread, etc.) the optical output of the light emitting element. As in the embodiment described in Example 1, the output lens 222 of each optical module 204 is fixed within an output optical element attachment member 224 that couples to a heat sink 220, The substrate 218 of the light emitting element can be fixed by thermal contact while the lens 222 is positioned. A lens barrel for reducing stray radiation that is not directed through the lens 222 and the electrical access holes may be provided as described below.

Each optical module 204 is coupled to the optical module coupling portion 208 via respective shaft pins 234 disposed along the length of the optical module coupling portion 208 and oriented substantially perpendicular thereto , And defines a respective transverse axis (indicated by arrow F) in which the optical module 204 can pivot. In one embodiment, each transverse axis is substantially defined by a geometric symmetry axis of each transverse of the optical module. In this particular embodiment, the shaft 234 is coupled between the coupling portion 208 and each heat sink 220 of the optical module 204. Alternatively, the shaft 234 may be coupled to the optical module 204 either through a dedicated structure integrally or removably secured, or through an extension of the heat sink 220, an output optical element attachment member 224, a substrate 218, It is possible to couple the optical module 204 to the coupling portion 208 through the coupling portion 208. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other configurations may be contemplated without departing from the general scope and nature of the invention.

The lighting fixture 200 may include an integrated and / or detachable power source located, for example, in the base portion 206, or may be connected to an external power source, such as a structure equipped with the lighting fixture 200, 200). Power is provided to the optical module 204 via wire 232 and is connected in series with the light emitting element.

The optical module 204 may be coupled to the optical module 204 via a pivotal movement of the coupling portion 208 relative to the longitudinal axis 214 and / Can be adjusted through pivot motion. Thereby, the output of the lighting device 200 can be tilted and / or panned as needed to provide the desired lighting effect. To achieve this adjustment, an adjustment wheel, lever and / or motor driven remote control may be provided. For example, a thumb wheel may be provided to adjust the pivot angle of the coupling portion 208, and a collimating arm interconnecting each optical module 204 or a subgroup thereof may be configured to adjust the pivot angle of the module 204 Can be provided.

In this particular example, the aiming arm 236 is coupled to the optical module 204 via a group of shaft pins 238 spaced from the shaft pin 234 such that the linear movement of the aiming arm 236 is directed to the support 208 Thereby causing the optical module 204 to pivot and panning / tilting the output of the optical module 204. The engaging portion 208 can be pivoted through the rotation of the aiming arm 236 such that the full adjustability of the lighting direction is accessible through a single aiming arm 236. [

Further, adjustment of the various pivot angles of the light emitting element 204 can be achieved without significantly changing the spatial profile of the light fixture 200. In particular, when the optical module 204 is adjusted relative to the support structure 202, the overall longitudinal profile of the luminaire 200 is substantially maintained. That is, the redirection of the optical module 204 does not significantly affect the overall location, alignment, shape, layout, and architectural symmetry of the lighting fixture 200. Thereby, the luminaire 200 provides an adjustable beam while maintaining a substantially fixed spatial profile.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other such heat sink designs that share a similar aesthetics while providing a large heat dissipation surface area can be considered without departing from the general scope and nature of the present invention.

Example 3:

Referring to Figs. 8 to 10, a luminaire indicated by the reference numeral 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described. The luminaire 300 generally includes a housing 302 and an optical module 304 that is adjustably coupled thereto.

The housing 302 generally includes a base 306 selectively secured or movably mountable to a support structure such as a wall, ceiling, furniture (e.g., cabinet, shelf, display case, etc.) (308). ≪ / RTI >

In this embodiment, the base portion 306 is coupled to the optical module coupling portion 308 defined by a substantially parallel coupling tab configured to pivotally couple to the optical module 304 via a heat sink 320 Not defined).

The housing 302 is configured to allow the optical module 304 to pivot together to receive the output direction of the optical module 304 when the optical module 304 pivots with the coupling portion 308 and / A substantially opaque portion 317 and a transparent portion or window 316 that are configured to move with the window 316. In this embodiment,

The optical module 304 generally includes one or more light emitting devices coupled to a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board, etc.) (i.e., six in this example), a heat sink And an output optical element such as each output 322 arranged to shut off the optical output of the light emitting element and to manage (e.g., focus, parallel, spread, etc.).

The luminaire 300 may include an integrated and / or detachable power source, e.g., disposed within the base portion 306, or may include an external power source, such as a structure mounted with the luminaire 300, (300).

The optical module 204 can be adjusted through the pivotal movement of the engagement portion 308 and / or through the pivotal movement of the optical module 304 relative to the pin 334, as indicated by the arrows G and H. [ Thereby, the output of the lighting device 200 can be tilted and / or panned as needed to provide the desired lighting effect. Adjustment of the pivot angle of the optical module 304 can be achieved without significantly changing the spatial profile of the light fixture 300. In particular, when the optical module 304 is adjusted relative to the housing 302, the spatial profile of the luminaire 300 is substantially maintained. That is, the redirection of the optical module 304 in the housing 302 does not significantly affect the overall position, alignment, shape, placement, and architectural symmetry of the lighting fixture 300. Thereby, the luminaire 300 generally provides an adjustable beam while maintaining a substantially fixed spatial profile.

In Fig. 10, a series of luminaires 300 are shown mounted in a linear manner suspended from the ceiling, the direction of which is indicated by the common direction of the output 316 of each luminaire and the optical module (not shown) . In this particular example, the output includes a substantially transparent portion surrounded by a substantially opaque portion, the transparent portion being pivotable to follow the adjustment of the optical module.

It is apparent that the above-described embodiments of the present invention are examples and can be modified in various ways. These and other changes in the present or future are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be readily apparent to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (25)

As a lighting device that provides general illumination, A housing defining an spatial profile of the luminaire and including an output; And One or more optical modules pivotally coupled within the housing, / RTI > Wherein each of the one or more optical modules includes a light emitting element, and a respective heat sink and output optical element therethrough; Wherein the at least one optical module is configured to pivot within the housing to adjust the direction of light emitted through the output while substantially maintaining a spatial profile of the illuminator, The lighting device also has a substantially longitudinal optical module coupling pivotally coupled to the housing to pivot about a substantially parallel longitudinal axis, the one or more optical modules being substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis And is pivotally coupled to said mating portion to pivot relative to each transverse axis. delete The method according to claim 1, Wherein the illuminator comprises two or more optical modules coupled along the coupling to form a substantially linear array, the output being such that light emitted from the linear array of the optical module is transmitted through a substantially longitudinally transparent portion Wherein the transparent portion is disposed so as to be able to illuminate the room. The method according to claim 1, Wherein each of the output optical elements of at least a portion of the at least one optical module is provided by an output optical element attachment member comprising an output optical element and an attachment element, Wherein the light source is configured to couple to the heat sink and the light emitting element through the attachment element to maintain thermal coupling between the light emitting element and the heat sink while positioning the light emitting element in optical alignment with the output. 5. The method of claim 4, Wherein the attachment element is configured to engage a substrate of the light emitting element and apply an attachment pressure to the heat sink to enable the thermal coupling between the two. 6. The method of claim 5, Wherein the heat sink comprises at least one attachment lip and the attachment element comprises at least one clip extending over the substrate while engaging the substrate and configured to engage each of the one or more attachment lips. 5. The method of claim 4, Wherein the attachment element comprises at least one of a magnetic attachment element, a snap-fit attachment element, a threaded attachment element, a pressure fit attachment element, and a suction attachment element. 8. The method of claim 7, Wherein the attachment element comprises a snap fit attachment element. The method according to claim 1, Wherein the at least one light emitting element is pivotally coupled within the housing through pivotal engagement of the respective heat sink within the housing. The method according to claim 1, Further comprising an adjustment mechanism including at least two optical modules and interconnecting the at least two optical modules, wherein the adjustment mechanism imparts substantially the same pivotal movement to the housing, imparting in unison to each of the optical modules, And is configured to adjust a direction that is substantially common. The method according to claim 1, Wherein the output comprises an adjustable output configured to pivot with the at least one optical module to adjust the orientation. The method according to claim 1, Wherein the output portion comprises a substantially transparent portion, the housing further comprising a substantially opaque portion surrounding the output portion to limit the output of the lighting device. An optical module for use in a general lighting fixture, Heat sink; A light emitting element; And An output optical element mounting member comprising an output optical element and an attachment element Lt; / RTI > Wherein the output optical element attachment member is configured to position the optical element in optical alignment with the output of the light emitting element and to maintain a thermal coupling between the light emitting element and the heat sink, ≪ / RTI > Each of the output optics and the heat sink of the luminaire being pivotally connected to the housing and pivotable about a respective transverse axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis to pivot about a longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the housing, An optical module pivotally coupled. 14. The method of claim 13, Wherein the attachment element is configured to engage a substrate of the light emitting element and apply an attachment pressure to the heat sink to enable the thermal coupling therebetween. 15. The method of claim 14, Wherein the heat sink comprises at least one attachment lip and the attachment element includes at least one attachment clip configured to engage the substrate while extending over the substrate and coupling to each of the one or more attachment lips. 14. The method of claim 13, Wherein the attachment element comprises at least one of a magnetic attachment element, a snap fit attachment element, a threaded attachment element, a pressure fit attachment element, and a suction attachment element. 17. The method of claim 16, Wherein the attachment element comprises a snap fit attachment element. As a lighting device that provides general illumination, A coupling structure including a base and a substantially longitudinal optical module coupling, the optical module coupling being pivotally connected to the base to pivot about a longitudinal axis substantially parallel to the optical module coupling; And A linear array of optical modules pivotally coupled along the optical module coupling, each optical module coupling including a light emitting element and pivoting about a respective transverse axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, Lt; / RTI > Wherein the pivoting movement of each of the optical modules provides adjustment of the orientation of the luminaire while substantially maintaining its spatial profile. 19. The method of claim 18, Wherein at least a portion of the optical module comprises a respective heat sink and an output optical element, each of the output optical elements being provided by an output optical element attachment member comprising an output optical element and an attachment element, Member is configured to couple the heat sink and the light emitting element through the attachment element to maintain the thermal coupling between the light emitting element and the heat sink while locating the optical element in optical alignment with the output of the light emitting element, Instrument. 20. The method of claim 19, Wherein the attachment element is configured to engage a substrate of the light emitting element and apply an attachment pressure to the heat sink to enable the thermal coupling therebetween. 21. The method of claim 20, Wherein the attachment element comprises a snap fit attachment element. 19. The method of claim 18, Wherein each said transverse axis of each of said optical modules is defined by the same symmetry axis. 19. The method of claim 18, Wherein said longitudinal axis is defined by a symmetry axis of said luminaire. 19. The method of claim 18, Further comprising an adjustment mechanism for interconnecting the linear arrays of optical modules, wherein the adjustment mechanism imparts substantially the same pivotal movement to the coupling structure to each of the optical modules to adjust the substantially common direction thereof Lighting fixtures. 25. The method of claim 24, Wherein the adjusting mechanism comprises an adjusting arm configured to interconnect the optical modules and to pivot the optical module about both the longitudinal axis and the respective transverse axis.

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